The Westminster Department of Public Works Issues a Water Conservation Advisory

The Westminster Department of Public Works advises municipal water users and private well owners that a drought watch is in effect to increase awareness of current dry conditions and to encourage water conservation. The dry weather that the region has been experiencing throughout the month of June taxes the Town’s water systems and creates conditions that are likely to precede a significant drought event. Simple improvements such as fixing water leaks, switching to more efficient equipment, and educating everyone in the community to conserve water can help to reduce costs and maintain an abundant water supply for the Town.

There are no water use restrictions in place at this time, but residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water:

• Outdoor water use should be limited to “handheld watering” with a hose or a water can after 5:00PM or before 9:00AM (to avoid evaporative losses); and
• It is recommended that outdoor water usage such as: automated sprinkler use, filling of swimming pools, and washing of cars and buildings be generally avoided. 

As we continue to constantly monitor conditions in our watershed while managing water in our reservoirs, the Westminster Department of Public Works asks the public to be mindful of the amount of water being used, reduce indoor water use, and address leaks as soon as possible. In the event that reservoirs decrease below adequate levels needed to maintain pressure  – voluntary water restrictions may switch to mandatory water restrictions. Please conserve water! Additionally, managers of larger buildings and businesses are asked to conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities. 

All these steps will greatly help reduce water use to ensure essential needs are being met, such as for drinking water, fire protection, and habitat and environmental use. For further information on water conservation and what you can do, visit the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs' drought webpage: http://www.mass.gov/eea/drought/, the Department of Conservation and Recreation's drought management page: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/water-res-protection/water-data-tracking/drought-status.html, and the MassDEP Water Conservation page: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/water/watersheds/water-conservation.html. The Department of Public Works encourages everyone to learn more about water conservation by visiting the Town’s Water Conservation webpage: https://www.westminster-ma.gov/department-public-works/pages/water-conservation.